Rajgir/Patna: Nalanda University celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga on Sunday with a series of activities promoting health, mindfulness and holistic wellbeing, bringing together students, faculty members, staff and members of the wider community.
The event was organised around this year’s global theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, which university officials said aligns closely with Nalanda University’s emphasis on balanced living and lifelong learning.
The celebrations were attended by Vice-Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Lieutenant General Sandeep Singh, Commandant of the Officers Training Academy in Gaya, along with deans, faculty members, administrative officials, staff and Indian and international students.
Yoga Beyond Physical Exercise
Addressing participants, Professor Chaturvedi reflected on the broader meaning of ageing and argued that youthfulness should not be measured solely through physical parameters or chronological age.
He said that for an institution such as Nalanda University, a person begins to lose youthfulness when they lose their sense of curiosity and inquiry.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the principles of yoga are closely connected with introspection, self-discovery and continuous learning.
He urged participants to view yoga not merely as a physical activity but as a means of understanding oneself and developing a deeper awareness of life.
Drawing Inspiration From Nalanda’s Philosophical Heritage
Professor Chaturvedi also referred to the teachings of the Buddhist philosopher Acharya Nagarjuna, whose ideas continue to influence intellectual thought and spiritual inquiry.
He noted that Nagarjuna’s philosophical concept of “emptiness” remains relevant in encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking.
Linking these traditions to the university’s contemporary mission, he said Nalanda seeks to integrate ancient philosophical wisdom with modern education and research.
The Vice-Chancellor described yoga as a practice that helps individuals explore different dimensions of existence while fostering mental clarity and personal growth.
Community Participation And Recognition
As part of the International Day of Yoga celebrations, the university also organised community engagement activities under its Sahabhagita Samvad initiative.
Winners of the Yoga Spardha Kaushal competitions held a day earlier were honoured with medals and certificates in recognition of their participation and achievements.
University officials said the competitions attracted enthusiastic participation from around 130 individuals, including local residents from surrounding communities.
The strong turnout reflected growing public interest in yoga and the university’s efforts to strengthen community engagement through wellness and cultural programmes.
Promoting Holistic Wellbeing
Organisers said the event underscored Nalanda University’s commitment to fostering physical health, mental wellbeing and intellectual development through practices rooted in India’s philosophical traditions.
The celebration concluded with participants reaffirming the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life as a means of promoting healthier, more balanced and mindful living.
